Seated Hamstrings Stretch Hello folks! Beyond Basics Physical Therapy’s latest health tip is the seated hamstrings stretch! Why seated you ask? In selecting this stretch over other hamstrings stretches, I wanted to pick something that most everyone can be able to do. This stretch is particularly beneficial for those of you who have difficulty getting on and off the floor. Although if you do have difficulty getting off of the floor, it is important to go to physical therapy and get the training to do so, as being able to independently get up off the floor is imperative for maintaining independent function as you age. Another point: if you have any sciatic pain or sitting pain, please seek a physical therapist before attempting this stretch. Muscles involved: Hamstrings, gastroc soleus complex ( your calf) and to some extent your sciatic nerve Stretch Type: Static: Best if performed after workouts on warm muscles. Exercise caution if stretching cold muscle, because unwarned muscle doesn’t stretch as well as warmed up muscles. Caution: It is possible to overdo it. Stop the stretch or ease up if you feel tingling in your legs or pain in your low back. As always: No stretch should ever be painful. If a stretch is painful, stop and consult your physical therapist for modifications. Directions: Sitting in a sturdy chair, ( don’t do this on a rolly stool or office chair, please!). Straighten knee of leg to be stretched and point toes up. Lean forward at the hips until you feel a gentle stretch in the back of your leg. Don’t round your back. Keep in mind, for those of us with tight hamstrings, you will feel the stretch without too much of a forward bend. So take it slow!
Fenitra demonstrates a straight knee and pointed toe while performing her stretch
Fenitra demonstrates this stretch